The 34th World Pilot Gig Championships takes place over the May bank holiday weekend, with more than 3,000 rowers in 130 boats racing for the top trophies in the Atlantic Ocean off the Isles of Scilly.

Pilot gig rowing may see boats crewed by six plus coxswain rather than eight, but the atmosphere is every bit as electric as that of the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, with a fiercely competitive series of races and rivalries as fierce as on the Thames.

Some 452 crews will take part this year t including four gig rowing clubs from the Netherlands – and River Fowey women and Looe men are determined to hold onto the coveted top spots.

New for this year is the the official introduction of an under-25s category, aimed at encouraging, recognising and retaining youth in the sport beyond school age. The Masters category for over-60s, launched last year, has seen substantial growth, reflecting the broad and lifelong appeal of gig rowing.

“We’re proud to share our heritage and islands with the world,” said championships chairman Tristan Hick.

“This is a truly spectacular event, with some of the long races having more than 100 boats on a mile-long start line. It brings thousands to the islands to take part and spectate.

“From young rowers just starting out to seasoned veterans and the top-tier athletes who push the sport to its limits, there’s a tangible sense of unity, tradition and excitement that reminds us all why this event is so special.”

The event is based on St Mary’s, the largest of the five inhabited Scillonian islands, which are 28 miles off Land’s End. Racing starts on Friday morning and finishes on Sunday afternoon. Races will be streamed on YouTube (weather permitting). A fan-zone with big screen and bar will be adjacent to St Mary’s Town Hall.

Pilot gig rowing has deep roots in the islands’ maritime past, with crews once racing to guide ships through dangerous waters, and playing key roles in rescue missions and even perhaps smuggling.

Today’s championships honour this heritage while showcasing the world-class dedication of modern gig rowers. The sport has grown enormously since its 1980s revival; there are now 8,000 rowers in 90 clubs across the UK, with more in Europe and America.

The event started in 1990 with a two-year break during the pandemic. It takes two months for the Scillonian ferry and a freighter to bring all the 32ft-long boats to the islands.

Crews submit themselves to gruelling training programmes throughout challenging winter conditions to reach peak performance. Every race is hard-fought and flawless teamwork is essential, the margins between victory and defeat can be razor-thin.

The Championships offer a vital economic boost for the islands’ visitor economy, which is the lifeblood of the Isles of Scilly and accounts for around 80 per cent of local income. It helps to fill accommodation, pubs and restaurants at a time when the islands would typically be quieter.

For more information, visit www.wpgc.uk